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Free-agent NFL running back Adrian Peterson will be required to complete 20 domestic violence and alcohol counseling sessions following his February arrest, the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office confirmed toESPN.
Last Friday, a pre-hearing with the city attorney was held as an alternative for prosecution where Peterson, 37, agreed to complete the counseling, the outlet reported. The athlete was not charged with a felony for the alleged domestic violence incident, but could still face a misdemeanor charge if he does not complete the required counseling sessions within six months.
The Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office and representatives for Peterson did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
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Peterson was arrested on Feb. 13 at the Los Angeles International Airport after airport police got a call at around 8:30 a.m. local time about a domestic violence situation that occurred on a flight leaving Los Angeles en route to Houston.
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After pulling out of the gate, police said the plane was forced to turn around following a reported “verbal and physical altercation” between two passengers, Peterson and his wife Ashley Peterson. The NFL also confirmed the arrest in anews releaseat the time.
Peterson posted a $50,000 bond and was released the same day as his arrest, the NFL added.
Peterson’s wife later defended the athlete onInstagram, writing, “On Sunday, Adrian and I had a verbal argument. Unfortunately it was on an airplane. At no point did Adrian hit or strike me. This is a private matter between my husband and myself. We ask that everyone respect our privacy so we can focus on what matters most: our children.”
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Peterson reposted the statement on his ownInstagramaccount, apologizing to his wife for having to “deal with” the incident after he “acted childishly.”
“I hold myself accountable,” he added. “Had I responded differently, this would be nonexistent. The world is so QUICK to pass judgment and come up with their own headlines.@mrsashleypetersonI again apologize for the words that came out my mouth, for I know life and death resides in the tongue!”
If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at1-800-799-7233, or go tothehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.
source: people.com
